Position: Consultant (Compassion International)__Deadline:20-February

Midterm Evaluation for Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) in Phnom Penh

The Youth Empowerment Program in Phnom Penh (YEP) is a four-year initiative (Mar 2024– Feb 2027) implemented by Frontline Church Partners (FCPs) with support from Compassion International Cambodia to promote holistic youth development aligned with Compassion’s Global Outcome Framework. The program focuses on Growth in Christ, Wellbeing, Agency, and Self-Sufficiency, with the goal of equipping vulnerable youth to become responsible Christian leaders and economically independent adults.

In Phnom Penh, YEP is implemented through eight FCPs, engaging approximately 240 youth annually (30 youth per FCP). The program targets youth aged 15-18 and delivers integrated interventions including discipleship and spiritual formation, Youth Life skills and leadership development, non- formal education, digital literacy (through Computer Lab), vocational Skill Development, and employability preparation. Activities are delivered primarily through center-based sessions, Youth discipleship through mentorship, home visits, and community engagement.

This midterm evaluation is conducted to assess progress toward intended outcomes, examine the participatory design & implementation, the relevance and effectiveness of program strategies in the Phnom Penh context, and identify implementation strengths, gaps, and lessons learned. The findings will inform adaptive program management and strategic adjustments for the remaining implementation period to strengthen outcome achievement and sustainability.

Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) Results Framework (Should go to Annex)

Program Goal
Youth are disciples of Jesus Christ, developing their God-given potential and making a positive difference in their communities.
240 underprivileged youth will develop essential skills, character, vision and competencies, unlocking their full potential for a purposeful and impactful progression towards a brighter future.

Key Indicators

• 60% of youth positively influence their context through church and community service
• 35% of youth hold active roles in church ministries
• At least 45% of youth secure employment, start a small business, or engage in income- generating activities within two years after high school

Objective 1: Growth in Christ
Youth grow as committed followers of Christ and internalize biblical truths.

Key Outputs

• Youth demonstrate consistent spiritual practices (prayer, Bible reading, group study)
• Youth actively participate in church life and peer discipleship
• Youth engage in service within church and community 

Key Indicators

• 70% of youth demonstrate growth in spiritual disciplines and biblical understanding
• 65% of youth commit to prayer at least three times per week
• 75% of youth read the Bible regularly
• 60% of youth actively serve in church ministries
• 40% of youth mentor or disciple peers

Objective 2: Wellbeing
Youth experience improved physical, emotional, mental, and relational well-being. 
Key Outputs

• Youth adopt healthy behaviors and lifestyles
• Youth demonstrate resilience, positive self-identity, and coping skills
• Youth build healthy relationships with peers, families, and trusted adults 

Key Indicators

• 60% of youth report being physically healthy
• 65% report improved emotional regulation and mental well-being
• 70% demonstrate a strong and realistic self-identity
• 75% of youth report having a trusted adult for guidance
• Reduction in reported cases of risky behaviors, exploitation, or unhealthy relationships

Objective 3: Agency and Leadership
Youth develop leadership skills and positively contribute to their communities through education and service.
Key Outputs

• Youth complete education or training aligned with career goals
• Youth apply life skills, leadership, and communication skills in practice
• Youth participate in community service and leadership roles 

Key Indicators

• 60% of youth complete secondary education and pursue higher education or technical training
• 80% of youth have a documented life or career plan
• 55% actively apply acquired skills in real-life or community settings
• 40% of youth voluntarily take leadership roles
• 60% contribute to addressing community needs through service

Objective 4: Self-Sufficiency
Youth are equipped with knowledge, skills, and support systems to achieve economic independence.
Key Outputs

• Youth receive career guidance, financial literacy, and mentorship
• Youth gain vocational, entrepreneurship, and income-generating skills
• Youth access employment, internships, or entrepreneurship opportunities 

Key Indicators

• 60% of youth enroll in or complete vocational training, higher education, or certification courses
• 70% of youth possess at least one income-generating skill
• 75% of youth report confidence in securing future employment
• 70% of youth have an adult mentor supporting their career or livelihood pathway 

Purpose of the Evaluation
1.    Assess Project Impact: (Innovation Project

• Participatory Design, Implementation? Why is it right in the context of Cambodia Church
• Review achievements, challenges, weaknesses, and best practices.
• Examine participatory design and implementation by FCPs, youth, and stakeholders.
• Identify outcomes, outputs, and any unintended results.

2.    Promote Accountability:

• Share findings with FCPs, and Compassion International.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of partnerships and collaboration in improving the lives of youth.

3.    Guide Improvement:

• Use lessons learned to enhance project strategies and inform the next remaining year plan. 

Scope of the Evaluation
This midterm evaluation examines the progress, performance, and implementation quality of the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP), supported by Compassion International Cambodia and implemented through Frontline Church Partners (FCPs), with a primary focus on Phnom Penh. The evaluation covers the period from program inception in March 2024 through the midterm stage and reviews both program design and implementation processes.

The evaluation will be conducted across eight FCPs, engaging FCP leadership teams, pastors, and approximately 240 youth participants and youth, caregivers or Parents. In addition, key external stakeholders will be consulted, including representatives from the private sector, public institutions, and subject matter experts in youth development, education, life skills, and employability, to provide contextual and technical perspectives.

A participatory mixed-methods approach will be applied, comprising: 

• Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with diverse Youth groups and Parents Group to capture varied experiences and perspectives.
• Survey administered to a random sample drawn from the total cohort of 240 youth participants
• Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with 8 FCP staff, 8 pastors or FCP’s leadership teams, and selected external stakeholders,
• A desk review of program documents, monitoring data, implementation plans, and progress reports

The findings of the evaluation will inform adaptive program management during the remaining implementation period and support evidence-based decision-making to enhance program effectiveness, quality, accountability, and sustainability.

The evaluation consultant team will propose the most appropriate methodologies in their technical proposal, including an outline of the literature review, administrative arrangements, timeline, and budget, as part of the initial selection process. The selected consultant team will be required to submit a detailed inception report prior to fieldwork, including finalized evaluation design, data collection tools, sampling strategies, and ethical considerations.

The evaluation will adopt a participatory and utilization-focused approach, ensuring meaningful engagement of youth participants, FCPs, and key stakeholders throughout the evaluation process. Both process-level and outcome-level evidence will be analyzed to assess implementation of quality, progress toward intended results, and emerging changes among youth. Findings will be framed to support learning, program improvement, and strategic decision-making.

Data Collection Methods and Tools
Desk Review: Review of relevant program documents, including the YEP proposal, logframe, monitoring data, Annual progress reports, and MERL tools to assess planned versus actual implementation and progress against indicators.

Quantitative Methods:
1.    The Youth Survey administered a random sample of youth participants to assess progress related to key indicators across spiritual growth, wellbeing, agency, and self- sufficiency.
2.    Analysis of available program monitoring data to triangulate findings.
 

Qualitative Methods:
1.    Focus Group Discussions (FGDs): FGDs with different youth groups across the eight FCPs to capture diverse experiences, perceptions, and program effects.
2.    Key Informant Interviews (KIIs): Interviews with FCP pastors and leadership teams, private sector partners, public sector stakeholders, and subject matter experts to assess relevance, effectiveness, program results & partnerships collaboration, and sustainability.

Tools and Language
All data collection tools (survey questionnaires, FGD guides, KII protocols, and observation checklists) will be developed in English and translated into the local language to ensure clarity, cultural relevance, and inclusivity. Tools will be pilot tested, where feasible, to improve reliability and validity.

Data Quality and Ethics
The consultant will ensure ethical standards, including informed consent, confidentiality, and safeguarding of children and youth participants. Data triangulation across multiple sources and methods will be applied to enhance the robustness of findings. 

No	Task	Actor	Timeline	Notes
Phase 1: Preparation & Consultant Selection
1	Develop Terms of Reference (TOR) for the evaluation	Youth Specialist	6-Jan-26	Foundation document outlining evaluation objectives, scope, and methodology
2	Announce call for potential consultants	BUS Manager	Early Jan 2026	Publicize opportunity to attract qualified consultants
3	Receive applications (CV, Cover Letter, Evaluation Proposal)	Consultant/BUS	Jan-26	Submission of required documents by interested consultants
4	Interview potential consultants	BUS Manager / Youth Specialist, P&C	Jan-26	Evaluate skills, experience, and suitability for assignment
5	Review and approve consultant applications	P&C and Specialist, ND	Jan-26	Ensure applications meet organizational requirements
6	Review and approve consultant applications with ENLT involvement	Specialist and ENLT	Jan-26	Additional endorsement for strategic alignment
7	Conduct YEP orientation and NCI for the consultant team.	Youth Specialist / MERL- Specialist	Jan-26	Briefing on project, objectives, and expectations
Phase 2: Planning & Access to Information
8	Consolidate list of beneficiaries and project stakeholders	PF & FCPs	Jan-26	Compile updated and complete stakeholder lists
9	Provide list of beneficiaries and project stakeholders	PF & FCP	Jan-26	Ensure evaluation team has access to stakeholders
10	Provide access to relevant documents for evaluation	Youth Specialist	Jan-26	Includes project reports, Proposal and FCPs Strategy, data, etc.
11	Manage evaluation contract and process with evaluation team	BUS Manager	Jan–Feb 2026	Monitor compliance, deliverables, and timelines
12	Make logistical arrangements for evaluation activities	Admin / PF / FCP staff	Jan–Feb 2026	Venue, transport, accommodations, and materials for evaluation
Phase 3: Evaluation Design & Inception
13	Develop Evaluation Plan and Framework.	Consultant	Feb-26	Detailed methodology, data collection tools, and timeline
14	Development Inception Report	Consultant	Feb-26	Draft report detailing evaluation design and approach
15	Review the Inception Report and provide feedback	Specialist and ENLT	Feb-26	Technical review to ensure alignment with objectives
16	Review Inception Report and provide feedback with ENLT	Specialist and ENLT	Feb-26	Strategic review and final endorsement

Phase 4: Data Collection & Analysis
17	Facilitate use of tools for data collection	Consultant	Feb–Mar 2026	Training and guidance for data collection instruments

18

Collect and analyze data

Consultant

Feb–Mar 2026

Conduct fieldwork, interviews, surveys, and analysis

Phase 5: Reporting
19	Write Evaluation Report	Consultant	Mar-26	Draft report including findings, conclusions, and recommendations
20	Review the Evaluation Report and validate findings	Specialist and ENLT, FCPs	Mar-26	Ensure accuracy, reliability, and alignment with objectives
21	Review the Evaluation Report and participate in the findings’ orientation	Specialist and ENLT	Mar-26	Presentation/discussion of findings before dissemination
22	Finalizing Report	Consultant	Mar 26	Submission the Final report
23	Present and disseminate evaluation findings	Consultant	Mar-26	Share results with stakeholders and project team
Phase 6: Management Response & Follow-up
24	Develop Management Response / Management Letter	FCPs Leaders SPAR,	Mar-26	Response to evaluation findings with follow-up actions
25	Provide information and attend the evaluation findings orientation workshop	Youth / FCP Leaders, CI - Team	Mar-26	Engage stakeholders and ensure lessons learned are captured

Evaluator Qualifications (annex)
Required Qualifications:

• Faith alignment: Must be a practicing Christian, committed to reflecting Christian values in professional practice. (Required)
• Education: Master’s degree in a relevant field (required).
• Professional experience: Minimum five years working directly in integrated community development, child-focused and community-led approaches (preferred).
• Evaluation experience: Participation in at least three evaluations over the past ten years, ideally in the development or child-focused sectors (required).
• Community knowledge: Strong understanding of rural and marginalized communities and holistic development approaches (required).
• Cultural sensitivity: Understanding and application of Christian principles in development and evaluation (preferred).
• Project management skills: Experience with project cycle management, theory of change analysis, and program monitoring (required).
• Cross-cutting issues: Experience in evaluating gender equity, disability inclusion, child protection,
• Participatory approaches: Skilled in participatory evaluation methodologies, ensuring meaningful involvement of communities, children, and other stakeholders (required). 

 

Reporting Requirements ( Annex)
The final evaluation report should be clear, evidence-based, and reflect the perspectives of communities, with emphasis on ethical reporting and Christian values of dignity and respect.
1.    Language: Written in English, with optional translation into Khmer.
2.    Executive Summary: Maximum of 2 pages.
3.    Suggested structure:
•    Title page
•    Acronym list
•    Executive summary
•    Introduction / Context
•    Project description and overview
•    Evaluation objectives
•    Evaluation methodology
•    Constraints/limitations
•    Findings (answers to all questions in the TOR)
•    Align Need Category Indicators of C.I
•    Learnings and recommendations
•    Any permissions or restrictions regarding publishing information
•    Annexes
Using quotes, case studies, photos, and graphs, the report will center on the voices, experiences, and needs of youth and their communities, ensuring all information is shared with dignity and confidentiality. 

Estimation of Costs
The consultant should provide a detailed budget along with the proposal, estimating a total of around USD X, XXX, including:

• Personnel: Fees for evaluator(s), research assistants, and support staff.
• Travel: Transportation, per diem, and mobilization costs.
• Supplies, equipment, and communications: Phone, email, printing, and postage.
• Translation costs (if needed).
• Workshops: Design, validation, and findings for utilization of workshops.
• Facilitation for intended users: Ensuring results are understandable and actionable for project staff and communities.
• The budget should reflect transparency, fairness, and cost-effectiveness. 

Procedures and Logistics

• The Compassion Cambodia office operates from Monday to Friday; therefore, evaluation activities should primarily be scheduled within regular working days. However, some FCPs conduct youth activities on weekends. In such cases, the  evaluation  consultant  is expected to demonstrate flexibility and coordinate closely with FCPs and PFs (Partnership Facilitators) to align data collection with program activities, while respecting institutional policies and local arrangements.
• Youth participants and FCP activities in Phnom Penh often follow school schedules, church programs, and family commitments. The evaluation team must work in close coordination with FCP staff and PFs (Partnership Facilitators) to ensure that data collection is appropriately timed, culturally sensitive, and does not disrupt ongoing program activities.
• All logistical arrangements—including coordination with youth participants, venue scheduling, local transportation, Khmer-speaking facilitators or translators, note-takers, and data collectors—should be planned and implemented in close collaboration with FCP and PFs, who serve as the primary coordination point between Compassion Cambodia,  FCPs, and community-level stakeholders. This collaboration will ensure smooth implementation, accessibility, and meaningful participation throughout the evaluation process. 

Timeline and Milestones – Work Plan
The evaluation is expected to start as soon as possible and be completed by the end of March 2026. Deliverables and timelines are: 

No	Deliverable	Due Date	Notes
1	Contract signed	End Of Feb 2026
2	Inception report: Approach, methodology, literature review, survey tools, report outline	1st of Mar	5 working days
3	Data            collection/collation,             including validation workshop	2nd 3rd W of Mar	10 working days
5	First draft report, including slides for initial findings presentation	4th W of Mar	10 working days
6	PowerPoint presentation and 2-page brief of findings	4th W of Mar	5 working days
7	Final draft/report	4th W of Mar	Total: 30 working days

Note: Working days are flexible, depending on field conditions. All deliverables should be in English, with optional Khmer translation. 

Quality Assessment of the Evaluation Report

• Clear answers to all questions in the Terms of Reference.
• Findings are evidence-based, reflecting the perspectives of Youth groups, FCPs, and Stakeholder and Community Groups.
• Analysis is specific, actionable, and reflects Christian values, dignity, and respect for participants.
• The report demonstrates holistic development of thinking, considering spiritual, social, emotional, and economic dimensions.
• Participation of Youth Participants, FCPs, Stakeholders, and communities in the evaluation process is documented and reflected. 

Interested consultants are invited to submit:

• Technical proposal (approach, methodology, timeline)
• Financial proposal with detailed budget
• CV(s) of the consultant/evaluator

Applications should be sent to syea@kh.ci.org

Moreinfo: https://www.compassion.com

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